Evidence supporting the use of: Dioscorea
For the body system: Prostaglandins

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Dioscorea, commonly known as wild yam, has a long history of traditional use in supporting women's reproductive health, including menstrual comfort and menopausal symptoms. This is largely attributed to its content of diosgenin, a plant steroid that can be chemically converted into progesterone and other steroids in the laboratory. Traditional herbalists have used wild yam to help balance hormones and, by extension, support the prostaglandin system, which is involved in inflammation, menstrual cramps, and other reproductive processes.

However, it is important to note that while diosgenin can be converted to progesterone in the lab, there is no evidence that the human body performs this conversion after consuming wild yam. Scientific studies directly examining the effect of Dioscorea or its extracts on prostaglandin synthesis or activity are limited. Some in vitro studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory effects, but clinical evidence in humans is lacking. Therefore, the use of Dioscorea to support the prostaglandin system is rooted primarily in traditional and historical use, with little robust scientific validation to date.

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